After 30 years devoted service as a special police constable, Andrew Duckham has decided to call it a day and to focus on other opportunities that may be heading his way.

Andrew joined the Special Constabulary in September 1986 and went on to serve mainly in the Falmouth and Penryn areas, providing a uniformed presence at various community events such as carnivals, fetes and parades and helping out regular police officers on front line patrols.

His entry into the constabulary didn't go without a hitch, though. He arrived at Falmouth Magistrates Court for his attestation and chose the wrong door. "I walked in the entrance for the magistrates to enter and was quickly directed to the court sergeant," said Andrew.

In those days, the special's uniform was different to that of a PC. Andrew was issued with a flat cap, PCs had helmets and ladies had bowler hats; a tunic jacket and trousers, which had a pocket down the leg for the truncheon; blue shirts and black clip on tie, PCs wore white shirts; black leather gloves and a full–length coat which Andrew said was "uncomfortable and not suited to the need to run after people."

He added: "On being given my newly issued truncheon I asked the stores man 'what do I do with this then?' holding up my new piece of equipment. 'Put it into your trouser pocket and leave it there' was the reply. A very wise piece of advice.

"Eventually the uniforms were aligned with the only difference being a clear SC with your collar number to signify that you were a member of the Special Constabulary. Most people are often unaware that you are different standing next to regular colleagues."

After some time, Andrew was called on to help train new recruits, helping them to gain a better understanding of how to apply their news skills learned from recruit training at headquarters. He led a section of Specials at Falmouth and was then given the responsibility of leading and managing larger teams based at other stations, helping them to develop and enhance skills.

The time has come, however, for Andrew, who is married to Anita, to look to other challenges. "I have enjoyed and relished the opportunities and challenges that I have been afforded during the service as a Special Constable," he said. "It has given me a positive opportunity to take an active part within my community and to share the responsibility of taking an active contribution in building safer and serving others.

"My service has given me the opportunity meet and work alongside a number of different colleagues whether at Falmouth Station or across the Force area. These have importantly turned into some lifelong friendships.

"I will be sad to leave the role but I have decided that I have completed a fair amount of time and it is the right time to move forward towards other opportunities."